Your COVID-19 Prevention Guide

As of March 15, 2020, the number of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in India was 107, with 2 people have died of the disease.

 

With the government declaring it a disaster and making hand sanitisers and masks essential commodities, it’s important to know your chances of contracting the Coronavirus, and what steps you can take as preventative measures.

 

COVID-19 is part of a family of Coronaviruses which cause respiratory illnesses in animals and humans that can range from a mild cold to pneumonia. The virus spreads from person to person mainly through the respiratory vapour, like coughing or sneezing. It is also possible for the virus to spread by touching surfaces contaminated by the virus. According to a report, the incubation period is 2 to 14 days after exposure, with an average period of 5 days. Symptoms include fever, shortness of breath, cough, and fatigue.

 

 

According to the WHO, your chances of getting Coronavirus are low if you haven’t come into contact with someone who has it or hasn’t travelled to an area where the virus is prevalent.

About 80% of people who contract COVID-19 recover from symptoms without needing any special medical treatment. Still, with a global pandemic afoot, it is important to take precautionary measures. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the probability of getting COVID-19.

 

Preventive Measures:

 

1. Practice good general hygiene, even after the pandemic is over.

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2. Wash your hands thoroughly -- ideally 30 seconds, but at least 20 seconds -- with soap or sanitiser that contains alcohol. 

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3. Do not touch your face with your hands, especially after touching other surfaces.

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4. Stay away from people who display COVID-19 symptoms, like coughing or looking tired.

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5. Stay home and self-quarantine if you are sick or are displaying symptoms.

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6. Regularly clean (or get cleaned) surfaces, like laptops, doorknobs, countertops etc.

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There is a lot of information, and misinformation, out there about the disease. The important thing is to not panic and practise good hygiene.